Diverticular disease and diverticulitis treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Diverticular disease and diverticulitis treatment
Recommended health tests for Diverticular disease and diverticulitis
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Diverticular disease and diverticulitis
Diverticular disease and diverticulitis represent conditions that can have a significant impact on the digestive system, particularly the colon. Diverticular disease is characterized by the formation of small bulges or pockets (diverticula) in the lining of the intestine. When these pockets become inflamed or infected, the condition progresses to diverticulitis, which can lead to severe abdominal pain, fever, and digestive disturbances. The prevalence of diverticular disease increases with age, affecting more than half of the population over 60 years of age in industrialized countries. This rising prevalence highlights the importance of understanding and managing this condition effectively.
Causes
The exact cause of diverticular disease and its progression to diverticulitis is not fully understood. However, several factors are believed to contribute to the development of these conditions. A low-fiber diet is the most commonly recognized risk factor, as it can lead to constipation and subsequently increase pressure within the colon. This pressure may cause the formation of diverticula. Other factors that may contribute include aging, obesity, smoking, lack of exercise, and certain medications that could affect bowel movement or the strength of the colon wall.
Signs and symptoms
The symptoms of diverticular disease and diverticulitis can vary, but common indicators include: - Abdominal pain, often on the lower left side - Fever and chills - Bloating and gas - Nausea and vomiting - Constipation or, less commonly, diarrhea - Rectal bleeding
Diagnosing Diverticular disease and diverticulitis
Diagnosis of diverticular disease and diverticulitis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specific tests. After discussing symptoms, a doctor may perform an abdominal examination to check for tenderness. Diagnostic tests may include blood tests to look for signs of infection, a CT scan to confirm the presence of diverticula and assess the severity of diverticulitis, and a colonoscopy to examine the entire colon and rule out other conditions.
Prevention and natural treatment
Preventing diverticular disease and the onset of diverticulitis largely revolves around lifestyle changes and diet modifications. Increasing the intake of fiber through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep stool soft and prevent constipation. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are also recommended. For those already diagnosed, treatment of diverticular disease aims to manage symptoms and prevent the progression to diverticulitis. This includes dietary adjustments, such as a high-fiber diet, and possibly taking fiber supplements. For uncomplicated diverticulitis, treatment may involve antibiotics to treat the infection, a temporary liquid or low-fiber diet to allow the colon to heal, and pain relievers. In functional medicine, a holistic approach is adopted, focusing also on improving gut health through probiotics, managing stress, and avoiding foods that can increase inflammation in the gut, such as refined sugars and processed foods. Herbal remedies, such as aloe vera juice and slippery elm, are sometimes recommended for their soothing properties on the digestive tract, although it's essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any natural treatment. Adopting these preventive measures and treatments can profoundly impact the management of diverticular disease and diverticulitis, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of occurrences and enhancing overall digestive health.
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